Refocusing on Christ’s Mission: A Call to Church Leaders
Dear fellow church leaders,
A concerning trend has emerged in the bustling corridors of our churches and the vibrant discussions in our Bible study groups. We’ve found ourselves entangled in debates about the rapture, arguing over Bible translations, disputing spiritual gifts, and even debating the shape of the earth. While these topics may have their place, we must ask ourselves: Are we losing sight of our primary mission?
The Danger of Divisive Debates
Imagine for a moment a church where members are more concerned with proving their point about the timing of the rapture than reaching out to their neighbor who’s struggling with loneliness. Picture a congregation more focused on defending their preferred Bible translation than on actually reading and living out its teachings. Unfortunately, these scenarios are not far from reality in many of our churches today.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16
This verse encapsulates the heart of our mission. Yet, how often do we let secondary issues overshadow this profound truth?
Unity in Essential Doctrines
As leaders, we must guide our congregations back to the essentials of our faith. The apostle Paul reminds us:
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
Ephesians 4:3-6
Our unity should be rooted in these fundamental truths, not in our stance on debatable matters. When we stand united on the essentials, we present a powerful witness to the world.
Prioritizing the Great Commission
Christ’s final command to His disciples was clear:
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Matthew 28:19-20
This Great Commission should be at the forefront of our minds and the heart of our ministry strategies. But how can we effectively carry out this mission?
Practical Steps for Sharing the Gospel
- Build Genuine Relationships: The most effective evangelism often happens in the context of authentic relationships. Encourage your congregation to get to know their neighbors, colleagues, and community members.
- Listen Before Speaking: In our eagerness to share the gospel, we sometimes forget to listen. Train your members to truly hear people’s stories, struggles, and questions before offering answers.
- Serve Your Community: Organize outreach events that meet real needs in your community. This could be anything from food drives to offering free tutoring services. Let your actions speak louder than words.
- Equip Your Congregation: Provide training on how to share their faith naturally and effectively. This could include workshops on personal testimonies, basic apologetics, and cultural sensitivity.
- Lead by Example: As leaders, we must model what it looks like to prioritize evangelism. Share your own experiences of sharing the gospel regularly with your congregation.
A Call to Action
Imagine the impact we could have if every church focused its energy on sharing Christ’s life-changing message instead of debating secondary issues. Picture the transformation in our communities if we channel our passion for theological debates into passionate outreach.
It’s time for us, as church leaders, to refocus our congregations on Christ’s mission. Let’s commit to:
- Emphasizing unity in essential doctrines
- Encouraging a culture of evangelism
- Equipping our members to share their faith effectively
- Leading by example in prioritizing the Great Commission
The world is hungry for hope, purpose, and love. We have the greatest message of all time—let’s not keep it to ourselves. It’s time to stop arguing and start sharing. It’s time to point people to Christ Jesus.
Will you join me in this renewed focus on our true mission? The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Let’s be those workers, passionately and unitedly, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.
Together, let’s make a difference for eternity.
About the Author
Meet Bruce Mitchell – a devoted servant of God’s Word and compassionate guide to his flock. As a Pastor, Bible teacher, and writer, Bruce shares heavenly wisdom for daily life.
Educated at Biola University and Dallas Theological Seminary, Bruce leads Agapao Allelon Ministries and writes at Allelon.us. His mission is to weave God’s love into society’s fabric through the principle of Loving One Another.
Inspired by 1 Peter 4:8, Bruce believes love can transform enemies into friends. He teaches that knowing God requires love (1 John 4:7-8) and urges us to love as Jesus did (Ephesians 4:31-32).
Bruce embodies unwavering faith and deep empathy. He offers wisdom from personal experiences and inspires and comforts others. Join him in exploring God’s word and applying it to your life. Let’s share love, as Jesus commanded!
Pastor | Bible Teacher | Speaker | Writer | Podcaster | Advocate for God’s Mercy, Grace & Love | Biola University & Dallas Theological Seminary alumnus | 1 Peter 4:8
